Eugene Willard Smith

Eugene Willard Smith, 76, passed away Saturday, February 13th, at North Carolina Baptist Hospital in Winston-Salem. He was born in Hempstead, NY, on October 31, 1944 to George and Frieda Smith. He grew up in Rockville Centre and attended East Tennessee State University where he became a member of Pi Kappa Phi fraternity. After receiving his BS in Education from ETSU, he went on to earn his Masters in Education from the University of Virginia. An educator for over 30 years, Eugene was a teacher, assistant principal, principal, and school board administrator for Henry County Public Schools. He enjoyed travelling, spending time with his grandchildren, and watching sports, especially the Virginia Cavaliers. He was an active member of the Martinsville Exchange Club and Holy Trinity Lutheran Church. Eugene was preceded in death by his parents. He is survived by his wife of nearly 54 years, Janice; his daughter, Amy Arranga and her husband, Brian, of Forest, VA; his three grandchildren, Arden, Max, and Finn; his brother, George Smith and his wife Carleen, of Marietta, GA; and several nieces and nephews. There will be a graveside service at Henry Memorial Park on Wednesday, February 17th, at 11 AM and will follow all COVID precautionary guidelines. In lieu of flowers, please consider donating to Holy Trinity Lutheran Church, 1527 East Church Street Ext., Martinsville, Virginia 24112. Online condolences at www.collinsmckeestonebassett.com Collins Funeral Home at Bassett, Virginia is respectfully serving the Smith Family.